Homemade Chocolate Cake: A Reader Favorite!

Homemade Chocolate Cake: A Reader Favorite!

There's something undeniably irresistible about a homemade chocolate cake. Rich, moist, and decadently chocolatey, this cake has earned its place as a beloved classic in kitchens around the world. Whether it's for a special occasion or a simple indulgence, this reader-favorite recipe delivers a slice of pure delight. Here’s how to make the ultimate homemade chocolate cake that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

.1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour

.1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar

.¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder

.1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

.1 ½ teaspoons baking soda

.1 teaspoon salt

.2 large eggs, room temperature

.1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature

.½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil

.2 teaspoons vanilla extract

.1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Frosting:

.1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened

.3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar

.½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder

.¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream

.1 teaspoon vanilla extractA pinch of salt

Instructions

.Preheat and Prepare: 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

.Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your cake will have a smooth texture and even rise.

.Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they’re well combined. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, and mix well.

.Mix and Incorporate: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. The batter will be quite thick. Carefully stir in the boiling water, which will thin out the batter but create a wonderfully moist cake.

.Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

.Make the Frosting: 

.While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting.In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, and beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Frost and Serve: 

.Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. 

.Place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

.For a decorative touch, you can add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries.

Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and milk are at room temperature for the best texture in your cake.

Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour and cocoa powder helps to avoid lumps and ensures an even distribution in the batter.

Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.

Cool Completely: Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

It’s a Favorite

This homemade chocolate cake stands out because of its perfectly balanced sweetness and deep chocolate flavor. The combination of moist cake layers with rich, creamy frosting creates a decadent dessert that’s always a hit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to please.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s become a beloved favorite. Happy baking!